5 Ways To Jumpstart Your Metabolism (and Start Burning Fat)

If you have a high resting metabolism, your body burns tons of calories and fat all the time—while you work, while you sleep, and even while you watch TV. On the flip side, if you have a low resting metabolism, your body isn’t burning a large amount of calories and fat during your normal daily activities.

Moral of the story? Boosting your metabolism is an important part of reaching your fitness goals and maintaining a healthy weight.

A healthy metabolic rate is important for other reasons too. Your metabolism regulates digestion, blood circulation, body temperature regulation, and the elimination of toxins.

So, how can you jumpstart your metabolism and start burning fat 24/7? Here are six healthy practices that will help you keep your metabolism at a high speed on a daily basis.

DRINK LEMON WATER

Starting your day with a big glass of lemon water is the perfect way to energize your body, jumpstart your metabolism, and begin flushing out toxins—first thing in the morning! We recommend warm water (which will gently wake up your digestive system) and fresh-squeezed lemon juice (which is packed with vitamins and minerals).

INCORPORATE WEIGHTS

We all know that weight lifting workouts and strength training workouts are two great ways to build muscle. But did you know that increasing your muscle mass is one of the best ways to raise your metabolism? Muscle tissue burns calories even when you’re resting, so building muscle is a key part of boosting your metabolism.

EAT MORE PROTEIN

Eating more protein is one of the best ways to increase your metabolism and burn more fat. Try to get a serving of protein at every single meal. Add a scoop of protein powder to your morning smoothie or bowl of oatmeal, add grilled chicken or steak to your lunch time salad, and make sure that your dinner is protein-based and not carb-based.

MOVE THROUGHOUT THE DAY

Staying active throughout the day is one of the best ways to raise your metabolic rate, get your blood flowing, and maintain high energy. If you have a lunch break at work or you’re feeling sluggish during the afternoon, get out of your chair and start moving! Even a ten-minute walk or a five-minute stretch session can help you increase your blood flow and boost your metabolism.

GET ENOUGH SLEEP

Although your metabolism is at its slowest while you sleep, your sleep habits actually play a crucial role in reaching a high metabolic rate. When your body is under-rested or fatigued, your metabolism slows and your energy levels drop off. If you’re exercising and eating well, and you still can’t get the number on the scale to budge, you may need to take a look at your sleep habits. Start getting at least eight hours of sleep a night, and you’ll see the results in your health and fitness.

With these simple habits, you’ll be able to boost your metabolism and continue burning calories and fat all day long.